Iowa slaps Fran McCaffery with suspension following postgame tirade

Iowa head coach Fran McCaffery has been suspended for two games for his postgame tirade following the Hawkeyes’ loss to Ohio State on Tuesday evening. The school released a statement on Wednesday afternoon.

After Iowa’s 90-70 loss to Ohio State, McCaffery reportedly screamed at an official “You cheating mother (expletive). You’re a (expletive) disgrace,” at Value City Arena. Both the head coach and his son — Connor McCaffery — were assessed technical fouls late in Tuesday’s game.

McCaffery will be suspended for Iowa’s upcoming games against Rutgers (Saturday) and No. 19 Wisconsin (March 7).

“Following the basketball game at Ohio State, Coach McCaffery made unacceptable comments to a game official in the hallway headed to the locker room,” Iowa Athletic Director Gary Barta said in a statement. “Fran’s comments do not represent the values of the University of Iowa, Hawkeye Athletics, and our men’s basketball program.”

In addition to the suspension, the University of Iowa has been fined $10,000 for violating the B1G’s Sportsmanship Policy.

“I am in total agreement with the suspension by Iowa Athletics and the fine levied by the Big Ten Conference,” McCaffery said. “My comments directed toward a game official were regretful. I apologize to Big Ten Conference officials, Iowa Athletics, my players and staff, and the tremendous Hawkeye fans. This behavior is not acceptable and I take full responsibility for my inappropriate comments.”

The Hawkeyes are 21-7 this season with a 10-7 mark in B1G play. McCaffery will make his return in Iowa’s season finale against Nebraska at Pinnacle Bank Arena on March 10.

Dustin grew up in the heart of Big Ten country and has been in sports media since 2010. He has been covering Big Ten football since 2014. You can follow him on Twitter: @SchutteCFB